Lawmakers give themselves $1M to pay for local tourism projects

Sponsor says looming elections not factor in decision

1:07 AM,
Mar. 26, 2014

Arthur Orr

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The Alabama Senate last week approved a General Fund budget with an appropriation that could benefit lawmakers' re-election campaigns this fall.

Language added to the budget before the upper chamber voted for it Thursday adds $1,050,000 to the Alabama Tourism Department, "for grants for tourism events to promote local and state economies." The appropriation, split evenly between the Alabama House and Senate, would give $5,000 to each House district, for up to five grants worth $1,000 each. Senate districts would get $15,000 to award up to 10 grants, worth $1,500 each.